Atomized Metal Powders

Overview

Atomized metal powders are tiny particles of metal produced through a process called atomization. This method involves melting the metal and then dispersing it into fine droplets, which cool and solidify into powders. Atomized metal powders are used in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and manufacturing, due to their unique properties such as high purity, controlled particle size, and excellent flowability.

Types, Composition, Properties, and Characteristics

Type of Metal PowderCompositionPropertiesCharacteristics
Aluminum PowderAlLightweight, conductiveHigh surface area, oxidizes easily
Copper PowderCuHigh electrical conductivityDense, good thermal conductor
Iron PowderFeMagnetic, reactiveHigh compressibility, versatile
Nickel PowderNiCorrosion resistant, toughHigh melting point, dense
Titanium PowderTiHigh strength-to-weight ratioCorrosion resistant, biocompatible
Zinc PowderZnAnti-corrosive, ductileLow melting point, reactive
Stainless Steel PowderFe, Cr, NiCorrosion resistant, strongHigh density, versatile
Cobalt PowderCoHard, wear-resistantMagnetic, high melting point
Silver PowderAgExcellent electrical conductivityHigh cost, tarnishes
Gold PowderAuHigh malleability, non-tarnishingExpensive, conductive
Atomized Metal Powders

Applications and Uses of Atomized Metal Powders

ApplicationType of Metal PowderDescription
3D PrintingTitanium, Aluminum, Stainless SteelCreating complex, custom parts with precision
ElectronicsCopper, SilverConductive inks, coatings, and components
Automotive PartsIron, AluminumEngine components, structural parts
Aerospace ComponentsTitanium, NickelLightweight, strong parts for aircraft
Medical DevicesTitanium, Stainless SteelBiocompatible implants and instruments
Paints and CoatingsZinc, AluminumAnti-corrosive coatings and pigments
CatalystsNickel, CobaltIndustrial chemical reactions
SinteringIron, CopperPowder metallurgy to form solid objects
Additive ManufacturingVariousLayer-by-layer construction of objects
Brazing and SolderingSilver, CopperJoining metal parts with precision

Specifications, Sizes, Grades, Standards

Type of Metal PowderParticle Size (µm)GradesStandards
Aluminum Powder10-2001000, 2000ASTM B209
Copper Powder1-50Electrolytic, AtomizedASTM B214
Iron Powder10-500Pure, Pre-alloyedASTM B213
Nickel Powder1-100123, 456ASTM B335
Titanium Powder15-150Grade 1, Grade 2ASTM F1580
Zinc Powder10-200100, 200ASTM B429
Stainless Steel Powder10-300304L, 316LASTM A276
Cobalt Powder5-100High-purityASTM F75
Silver Powder1-20High-purityASTM B822
Gold Powder1-10High-purityASTM B562

Suppliers and Pricing Details

SupplierMetal Powders OfferedPrice Range (per kg)Additional Services
Advanced Powder ProductsAluminum, Copper, Iron$50-$200Custom blending, delivery
HöganäsIron, Nickel, Stainless Steel$30-$150Technical support, R&D collaboration
GKN HoeganaesTitanium, Aluminum, Iron$60-$300Custom solutions, worldwide shipping
Carpenter TechnologyTitanium, Nickel, Stainless Steel$70-$350Additive manufacturing services
Makin Metal PowdersCopper, Zinc, Iron$40-$180Custom alloy production
TeknaAluminum, Titanium, Stainless Steel$80-$400High-purity powders, rapid delivery
SandvikStainless Steel, Nickel$50-$250Extensive technical support
HeraeusSilver, Gold, Platinum$100-$1000High-purity precious metals
AMETEK Specialty Metal ProductsIron, Nickel, Copper$45-$220Custom solutions, technical assistance
Praxair Surface TechnologiesVarious$70-$300Aerospace-grade powders

Comparing Pros and Cons

Metal PowderAdvantagesDisadvantages
Aluminum PowderLightweight, conductive, non-corrosiveOxidizes easily, flammable
Copper PowderExcellent electrical and thermal conductivityExpensive, heavy
Iron PowderMagnetic, cost-effective, versatileSusceptible to rust, reactive
Nickel PowderCorrosion-resistant, toughExpensive, heavy
Titanium PowderHigh strength-to-weight ratio, biocompatibleExpensive, reactive in powder form
Zinc PowderAnti-corrosive, ductileLow melting point, not as strong
Stainless Steel PowderCorrosion-resistant, strongHeavy, expensive
Cobalt PowderHard, wear-resistant, magneticExpensive, brittle
Silver PowderExcellent conductivity, high malleabilityVery expensive, tarnishes over time
Gold PowderHigh malleability, non-tarnishingExtremely expensive, heavy
Atomized Metal Powders

FAQs

QuestionAnswer
What is atomized metal powder?Atomized metal powder is produced by melting metal and dispersing it into fine droplets that solidify into tiny particles.
What are the uses of atomized metal powders?They are used in 3D printing, electronics, automotive parts, aerospace components, medical devices, and more.
How are atomized metal powders produced?Through a process called atomization, which involves melting the metal and using high pressure to disperse it into fine droplets.
What are the benefits of using atomized metal powders?They offer high purity, controlled particle size, excellent flowability, and versatile applications.
Are atomized metal powders expensive?The cost varies depending on the type of metal, with prices ranging from $30 to over $1000 per kilogram.
Can atomized metal powders be used in additive manufacturing?Yes, they are widely used in additive manufacturing for creating complex and precise parts.
What metals can be atomized?Almost any metal can be atomized, including aluminum, copper, iron, nickel, titanium, zinc, stainless steel, cobalt, silver, and gold.
What are the challenges of using atomized metal powders?Challenges include handling reactivity, ensuring consistent quality, and managing costs.
How do you choose the right metal powder for an application?Consider factors such as the required properties, cost, and specific application needs.
Where can I buy atomized metal powders?They can be purchased from specialized suppliers like Höganäs, GKN Hoeganaes, Carpenter Technology, and others.

Conclusion

Atomized metal powders are indispensable in modern manufacturing, offering unparalleled precision and versatility. Whether it’s for creating complex aerospace components or efficient electronic devices, understanding the properties, applications, and sourcing of these powders is crucial. By weighing the pros and cons and considering specific requirements, one can make informed decisions to leverage the full potential of atomized metal powders in various industrial applications.

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